To the casual observer, it sounds like something from the pages of a Boy’s Own Annual.

But security officials are insisting that every household in the UK needs to pack a 72-hour ‘survival kit’ in case a Russian attack on our energy infrastructure plunges us into darkness.

In an ominous-sounding development, sources told the Mail that families should be prepared ‘for all eventualities’. It comes against the backdrop of mounting fears over the threat of Kremlin-led sabotage against crucial British supply channels.

Almost 40 per cent of our gas is imported from Norway – much of it through the Langeled pipeline that runs 700 miles to the Yorkshire coast under the North Sea. Meanwhile, our telecommunications networks are also heavily reliant on underwater cables.

The warning follows last week’s launch in Brussels of a new ‘preparedness’ strategy to ‘prevent and respond to emerging threats’ across Europe. One senior EU official remarked that the move was aimed at ensuring that ‘everyone [has] a manual of what to do when the sirens go off’.

Back here at home, the safeguarding of undersea infrastructure will be a key element of the Government’s Strategic Defence Review by former Nato chief Lord Robertson this year.

But in the meantime critical parts of our energy network will – as Conservative MP Nick Timothy puts it – remain ‘exposed and vulnerable to attack by hostile states like Russia’.

Perhaps unsurprisingly in the circumstances, a growing number of Britons are logging on to so-called ‘prepper’ websites that have grown up around the survivalist movement.

Security officials are insisting that UK households need to pack a ‘survival kit’ in case of a Russian attack on our energy infrastructure. Pictured: Russian President Vladimir Putin

Dispensing advice that ranges from the self-explanatory to the somewhat less obvious, these sites are aimed at encouraging individuals to be ready for life in the aftermath of a major emergency such as a natural disaster or – to get back to where we started – full-scale blackout.

And as the Mail discovered, it involves more than simply stocking up on tea bags and toilet rolls...

TORCH

At the risk of stating the obvious, a torch or flashlight will be the most useful item to have handy in the event of a blackout. Make sure to stock up with plenty of spare batteries.

RADIO

An essential for making sure you keep up to date on what exactly is happening locally and in the wider world. Again, you’ll thank yourself if you have a ready supply of extra batteries unless you have a wind-up version.

FIRST AID KIT

Preferably a large kit containing plasters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, sanitiser, medical scissors, face masks and so on.

A first aid kit should include plasters and antiseptic wipes

NON-PERISHABLE FOOD

Tinned edibles such as meat, beans, lentils and soups. Also, rice, pasta, crackers, peanut butter, energy bars, dried fruits and shelf-stable milk.

BOTTLED WATER

At least six litres per person.

WATERBOB

Retailing for a little over £50 and made of heavy-duty plastic, a WaterBOB is a ‘water containment system’ that can hold up to 100 gallons of fresh drinking water in a standard bath tub.

THERMAL BLANKETS

Lightweight, but effective at retaining body heat during cold weather.

PHOTOCOPIES OF IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

At least one copy each of passport, driving licence and other forms of ID as well as vital contact numbers.

CANDLES

Another source of light, but obviously without the need for batteries.

MEDICINES

If possible, try to have extra supplies of all prescription medication taken by any family members. Adequate quantities of paracetamol and other over-the-counter drugs are also strongly recommended.

ROPE

A length of strong rope will help to secure temporary shelter (if needed) – and can also be used as a washing line.

BACKPACK

A large, sturdy backpack or rucksack to carry essential items.

WARM CLOTHING

Given the UK’s unpredictable weather, a woolly hat, scarf and gloves – as well as a waterproof coat – are all must-haves.

SPARE KEYS

At least one spare set of both house and car keys.

MONEY

Given the lack of access to bank machines or credit card terminals, it is important to have some ready cash on you.

GAMES

With the prospect of endless hours stretching out into the distance, it is important to have something to relieve the boredom. Having a set of playing cards or a travel chess board would likely prove invaluable – and could also encourage bonding between family members at a stressful time.

PETROL/DIESEL

If possible, always try to keep your car’s fuel tank topped up.

SWISS ARMY KNIFE

Can be used as a screwdriver, bottle and can opener, pliers, miniature saw and magnifying glass among other functions.

SALT

With refrigeration systems out of action, salt can be used as a basic food preservative.

COMPASS

Could be a lifesaver if someone gets lost and disorientated.

A compass could be useful if someone becomes lost or disorientated

SPECTACLES

A spare set of reading glasses – or other prescription spectacles – could prove essential. Sunglasses are also worth packing.

PORTABLE USB SOLAR CHARGER

Some models can charge two devices – smartphones or tablets – at the same time.

AXE

Useful for chopping firewood.

LIGHTER/SAFETY MATCHES/FIRELIGHTERS

To light fires for cooking and warmth.

WHISTLE

Could prove very handy indeed if you need to attract attention.

TIN FOIL

Useful for wrapping potatoes and meat before cooking over a fire.

BAKING SODA

As well as its use in cooking, it can also be used as a cleaning and deodorising agent.

BATHROOM ESSENTIALS

Personal hygiene items, grooming tools and – of course – the aforementioned loo rolls.

PORTABLE STOVE

Can be used for both cooking and as a source of heat.